Discharge Instructions for Laminectomy

A surgeon removed a piece of bone from the back of from your spine called the lamina. This procedure is called laminectomy. Its purpose is to relieve the pressure caused by a bulging disk, ligament, cyst, tumor, or bone that painfully pushes on a nerve. Below are some care tips you can follow at home to help you feel better.

Activity

Don't push, pull, bend, or twist for 2 week(s) after your surgery.

Don’t sit for more than 20 to 30 minutes at a time. And when you aren’t sitting, lie down or walk.

Walk as much as you can. You can walk outside or inside. If you use a treadmill, walk at a slow speed, with no incline.

Going up and down stairs is also good for you, so do it as much as possible. Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds (4.5 kg) until your doctor says otherwise.

Don’t drive for 2 to 3 weeks after your surgery. And never drive if you are taking opioid pain medication. Let others drive you instead. And limit car trips to 20 to 30 minutes at a time.

Have someone remove electrical cords, throw rugs, and anything else in your home that may cause you to fall.